Downtown Waynesville goes to the dogs

The 8th annual Sargeâ€™s Animal Rescue Foundation Downtown Waynesville Dog Walk will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3. Sign up begins at 9 a.m. in front of the Haywood County Courthouse.

Last yearâ€™s walk raised $20,000 for Sargeâ€™s. The funds are vital to Sargeâ€™s mission to rescue homeless dogs and cats in Haywood County. The fundraiser helps to offset the costs of medical supplies, boarding, transport and food for the hundreds of animals the organization finds homes for each year.

After the walk, dogs and their owners compete in tail wagging competitions, participate in the owner/dog lookalike contest, show off in the best dressed competition or exhibit their skills in the best trick contest.

Pre-registration will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 1-2, at the Sargeâ€™s office. Walkers must complete a registration form, which can be found on the Sargeâ€™s website or at the Sargeâ€™s office. Registration is $15 per dog, and event T-shirts are $15 each or free with registration. Each walker receives a dog bandanna and goody bag.